Learn how to build a unique custom platform bed with a hidden cantilever frame.
Getting from where my clients and I started, to arriving at this design, was a long process, but it was worth the effort. Initially, my clients knew they wanted a bed that looked like it was floating with a framed ledge all around. They showed me magazine and catalog images of beds with elements they liked. I knew what they wanted, but I didn’t know how to do it. So, it was off to my computer to start designing. After many revisions in which I progressively moved the legs, and then a base, farther and farther inward, it finally hit me: a cantilever supported frame was the perfect solution. My clients were ecstatic, and I was off to the races.
The cherry lumber I used looks rich, which is good — it’s not inexpensive. It will darken with time and become even better-looking. My clients wanted the base made out of cherry, too, which added to the cost. You could save money by using a cherry-stained wood (birch or poplar) for the base, as it’s not very visible.
For the custom platform bed frame plans and materials list in PDF format click here
For elevation drawings of the custom bed frame in PDF format click here
Build the Project to Fit Your Mattress
The dimensions given in the Material List on the facing page are for making a bed using a 10″-thick queen-size mattress without a box spring. There’s a 3/4″ space all around between the mattress and platform frame. I suggest you spend a little money, and a little time, confirming the fit using your mattress and bedding. Adjust the dimensions to suit your needs. You can do that by making a crude test frame using 1x2s. Start large and slowly trim and make your test frame smaller until you get the size you want. You may also need to adjust the size and shape of the fill blocks (pieces 21).
